New tracks (record): South Ninth St. edition

A couple of notes before a blackout-free green flag in Indianapolis.

A couple of things before the green flag at today’s Indy 500 …

IT’S A NEW TRACKS (RECORD) ON SOUTH NINTH

Just a quick note to acknowledge that Norfolk Southern’s repairs on the South Ninth Street railroad tracks – between Beck Lanes and Twyckenham Boulevard – are done. Trips to Armstrong Park, Walt’s Other Pub and Teays River Brewing won’t be the rugged, potholed adventures they’ve been in the past year or more.

Here’s a look (no before photo, but IYKYK):

(Photo: Dave Bangert)

The crossing has been among the worst in the city, something Mayor Tony Roswarski noted when Norfolk Southern announced plans to finally address the rim rocking situation.

“City officials have elevated these concerns for several years, and it’s encouraging to see that feedback reflected in upcoming repairs,” Roswarski said. “We thank the community for their patience during these short closures and look forward to smoother, safer roads ahead.”

Up next, the rail company will have these road closures for maintenance on equally rough crossings:

• May 27-30: Concord Road, between Daugherty Drive and Olympia Drive.

• June 2-4: South 18th Street, between Brady Lane and Normandy Drive.

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NO BLACKOUT, BUT WILL YOU WATCH THE INDY 500 LIVE?

With sold out grandstands at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway, today’s 109^th edition of the Indianapolis 500 offers rare, blackout-free, live coverage of the race on TV for Greater Lafayette. The race starts at 12:45 p.m. on Fox. We remain a radio-listening household – some traditions don’t die easily. (This year in Lafayette on WKOA 105.3FM.)

For schedules, lineups and more today, the IndyStar has this primer: Indy 500: Schedule, starting grid, odds to win, start time, where to watch.

Thank you for supporting Based in Lafayette, an independent, local reporting project. Free and full-ride subscription options are ready for you here.

Tips, story ideas? I’m at davebangert1@gmail.com.